Skift Take
The investigation seeks to determine whether recent industry trends like devaluing the worth of miles and consolidation have adversely affected consumers.
The Department of Transportation officially launched an inquiry Thursday into whether the loyalty programs of the four largest U.S. airlines have engaged in unfair, deceptive or noncompetitive practices.
The department said its probe would focus on how frequent flyer programs are impacted by the devaluation of miles, hidden and dynamic pricing, extra fees, along with reduced competition and choice.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg sent a letter to American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines requesting them to provide records and reports about their loyalty programs, practices and policies.
Skift has contacted the four airlines involved for comment.
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